Most bigger cities have a botanical garden, however Bern’s botanical garden stands out, because it offers activities all year round.

Their varied program ranges from concerts, poetry nights, guided tours to art workshops. Of course, the garden is beautiful and inspiring itself, with its view on the emerald river (Aare). The greenhouses are an excellent spot to warm up in winter and to dream of warmer times.

If you feel a little bit peckish, I recommend you pop in the cafébar Fleuri. They offer a small but handpicked selection of breakfast dishes, snacks, cocktails and ice cream in the warmer months. On rainy days, you are served in the Orangerie among green leafy creatures. Please note that the café has a winter break from November to March.

Another advantage is that the garden is not far from the trendy and alternative neigbourhood “Lorraine” and the old town. Therefore, you can easily combine a visit in the botanical garden with some sightseeing, bar hopping or browsing the numerous small shops (I recommend Lorrainestrasse).